What is important to know about Zovirax (Acyclovir)?

Do not stop taking Zovirax earlier than prescribed. You may feel better before you treat your disease entirely.

Start taking Zovirax at the first sign of such symptoms as burning, tingling, blisters.

Herpes is infectious and you can contaminate other people even if you are taking Zovirax. Do not let contact of other people with your infected areas. Do not touch your eyes after you have touched the infected area. Wash your hands often to prevent infestation of other people.

How should Zovirax be used?

Follow the prescriptions of your doctor and the instructions which come with the medication carefully. Do not change your dose and do not use Zovirax for a longer period than prescribed.

Start taking Zovirax at the first sign of such symptoms as burning, tingling, blisters.

Take your dose of Zovirax with a full glass of liquid. Drink enough fluids while using Zovirax to protect your kidneys.

You can take Zovirax with or without meal. If you take it with food, you can reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Shake the bottle with liquid form of the medicine (oral suspension) just before measuring a dose. Do not use a table spoon to measure the dose of liquid form of Zovirax. If you do not have a special dose-measuring cup or spoon, ask your healthcare provider where you can get it. Do not stop taking Zovirax earlier than prescribed. You may feel better before you treat your disease entirely. Zovirax is not effective for treatment of viral infections like influenza or cold.

Keep injures provoked by herpes viruses clean and dry. You are recommended to wear loose clothes to protect the lesions from irritation.

What side effects can Zovirax (Acyclovir) cause?

Get emergency medicine if you experience any of the following symptoms of allergy: trouble breathing; hives; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor promptly if you develop any of the following serious conditions:

unusual weakness;

urinating less than usual or not at all;

pain in your lower back; or

easy bruising or bleeding.

Zovirax may also cause less serious side effects:

swelling in your hands or feet;

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain; or

headache, feeling light-headed.

Zovirax may also cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you need medical advice about them.

The information provided on this site is not intended to replace any advice given by your physician or other health care workers. Additionally, you should not attempt to utilize any of this information to treat or diagnose a medical problem without first seeking advice from a qualified medical professional. Further, it is vital that you read any and all instructions and precautions listed on the label of any medication you are prescribed. If you suspect you may be suffering from a medical issue please contact your doctor right away.